Kevin McManus is a math and science in the Middle School and has been working at Carolina Day School since 2001. His child has attended CDS since 6th grade. Prior to his work at CDS, he worked as a quality control inspector.

Get to know Kevin McManus:

In what ways can you teach/engage children at CDS that you couldn’t at other schools? “I have more flexibility in the curriculum to try new things that have direct interest for a particular year of students.”What do you like most about your job at CDS?“The teachers and staff are always very helpful.”

In your opinion, how does the CDS community inspire students to be courageous and curious, wonder about things that they don’t understand, try new things, and develop individual passions? “We encourage student to learn from their mistakes, rather than creating unrealistic expectations, so they become more comfortable taking risks.”How would you describe your classroom?“A supportive environment that allows students to learn from their mistakes (it was a good example!)”

What is your favorite quote about education, mentorship, children, and/or learning? “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again!”

Which classroom projects/events are you known for?“Robot projects - creating a self-directed (not remote control) robot to perform various tasks and needing to edit and revise the programming to fit the specific task. Earthquake tower made from weak materials (plastic straws, paper clips, and pins) that needs to hold several kilograms to be successful. Balsa wood bridge building based on NCDOT project. Math house project requires students to design a house and furnish with a limited budget...requires multiple revisions, reflection of the process required at and part of the conclusion.”

What personal passion brings balance to your life? “Beekeeping; reading on multiple subjects, but particularly on economics, physics, history.”Is there anything else we should know about you and your work? “Constantly reviewing and reflecting on successes and failures.”

How is CDS different from what you experienced as a child in school?“More project based learning learn with more authentic evaluation (either it works or it doesn’t!!)”